Bryan Building, Fort Lauderdale

The Bryan Building is one of downtown Fort Lauderdale’s oldest surviving commercial structures. Built by Thomas Bryan and completed in 1914, the building stands in what was once the heart of the city’s business district. At a time when Fort Lauderdale was still taking shape, this structure played a central role in everyday civic and economic life.

Over the years, the Bryan Building served several key functions. It housed a U.S. Post Office, making it a vital point of communication for residents and businesses, and it was also home to the Fort Lauderdale Bank, reflecting the city’s growing financial activity. At different periods, the building operated as a hotel as well, offering lodging in a busy area close to the river and commercial streets. These changing uses show how the building adapted to the needs of a developing town.

Today, the Bryan Building is valued for its historical significance rather than its original functions. Its preservation helps illustrate how Fort Lauderdale evolved beyond a small settlement into an organized commercial center. In recognition of its importance, the Bryan Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997. It makes a worthwhile stop for visitors interested in seeing where the city’s early business, banking, and public services once came together.